31605 Emer tracheostomy cthyr mem
Also known as: cricothyrotomy, emergency airway, emergency cricothyrotomy
Emergency tracheostomy performed through the cricothyroid membrane (space between cricoid and thyroid cartilage) for rapid airway access in life-threatening airway emergency.
Clinical Context
Performed emergently when standard tracheostomy cannot be rapidly performed; provides temporary airway access during resuscitation but typically converted to standard tracheostomy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.29 |
| Practice Expense RVU | 1.40 |
| Malpractice RVU | 1.37 |
| Total RVU | 9.06 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Specialties
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.